Magnolia Hotshots' Calvin Abueva talks about upcoming PBA season

MANILA, Philippines – Calvin “The Beast” Abueva has been a fixture in the Philippine Basketball Association since he was drafted second overall by the Alaska franchise in 2012. 

He was expected to make an instant impact in the pros since he was the very first collegiate player to have led a league in scoring, rebounding and assists, and he has helped his squads in every stop, also donning the National colors along the way.

Entering Abueva's 13th season, the Magnolia franchise is counting on the power forward to bring his leadership and talent, to help them make it back to the mountaintop. 

How has your preparations been for the coming PBA Season?

Calvin: It’s been quite a while since we last played. We are training hard for this coming Governor’s Cup, and I know everyone is excited for the coming conference opening on August 18. Mainit na bakbakan na ito!

How’s your import, Glenn Robinson III, doing?

Calvin: He is good! He is able get the system of coach, and our bonding has been great! We encourage him and we also make sure that we are there to be with him outside of practice. Being alone here in the country, he needs our support and we are hoping that leads to a championship in the end.

I’m not certain if he will play the four or the three for us, but he is a perfect fit for the wing. He and I will be banging with the opposing big men and the imports of the other teams. We will be sacrificing our bodies defensively, but we are also hoping he helps out offensively.

What’s are your goals for this coming season?

Calvin: I just want to bring my usual game back. I want to contribute to my team the way they expect me to, and hopefully that brings us to a Championship. We have a different format this conference, this is a longer one than usual, but we need to persevere if we want that title.

Why? What happened with your game?

Calvin: I’m just going back to basics. Concentrating on working hard. I’m simplifying things. No more distractions. I’m focused on my strengths and just doing exactly what’s being asked from me by the coaches. That’s what’s kept me here in the PBA this long, so I’ll stick to this.

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